German Straight Razor, Backhaus, Mother of Pearl M.O.P. & Silver

From the early 1900's, a very rare genuine MOP handled straight razor. The 5/8 blade is what's known as a "square" or "spike" point, with a 1/2 hollow grind (about a VI or VII Henckels scale), and is fully swept (concave spine and similarly curved blade edge). The spine has serrated jimping along its full length; the back side of the tang has a logo of a man riding a stork, and on the front is stamped: "165" "F.W. Backhaus" "Ohligs Solingen". Before the business closed in the 1950's, Backhaus had earlier manufactured weapons such as knives and swords for the Nazis.

The scales each have three lustrous panels of white ocean pearl oyster (Pinctada maxima) from either Indonesia or the Philippines, well-figured and iridescent, separated by two 3/16" wide cast silver bands with a leaf design. The liners under the pearl are brass-clad.

Overall condition is good, but the blade has damage to its edge and spots of tarnish or light rust (all repairable), and the front pin on one side has a hairline crack although the pearl is still solidly mounted. The blade has a minimal hone wear line (about 1/64"), and centers well between the scales without touching.

A very collectible piece which displays nicely, and which could be restored to shaving condition!